The term 'hitting a brick wall' literally hit home for one alleged car thief shortly before 4am today when, while behind the wheel of a stolen vehicle, he crashed into the Glen Innes Police Station [see attached photo].
The early morning journey got worse for the driver and his female companion who decided to run from the scene only to be located by Police a short distance away. It transpires the alleged driver was forbidden to drive and, when tested, was found to be over the legal breath/alcohol limit.
The vehicle had been stolen from a Panmure property and sustained considerable damage. The driver suffered a minor head injury and the Police station has some cracks today that didn't exist yesterday.
The 20 year-old driver will appear in the Auckland district Court today charged with resisting Police, unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, excess breath alcohol and being a forbidden and unlicensed driver.
Auckland City District commander, Superintendent Richard Chambers says that, while the car's resting place can be seen as comical, the fact a young unlicensed man was out and about on city roads allegedly in a stolen vehicle while intoxicated is no laughing matter.
"The events of early this morning that ended up literally colliding with Police on a range of levels are stark reminders that law abiding motorists are always going to be at risk when there are others who choose to abandon their legal responsibilities."
Issued by Noreen Hegarty
Auckland City Police Communications Manager
Ph 09 302 6947 or 0274-951-589
Website: www.police.govt.nz
